PARSIPPANY — The 97,817-square-foot office building at 1599 Littleton Road is now available for sale, offering a fresh opportunity in the town’s expanding redevelopment landscape.
Jones Lang LaSalle (JLL) is handling the marketing of this nearly 10-acre property, highlighting its potential for asset repositioning and the advantageous combination of highway accessibility and its Morris County location.
The three-story building, built in 1969, is situated among various prominent businesses in the pharmaceutical, food, technology, and retail sectors that still anchor Parsippany’s office market. Additionally, the area has witnessed the transformation of aging commercial properties into mixed-use developments, multifamily residences, and other types of projects.
The building is currently owner-occupied by MJM Insurance. MJM plans to move soon to One Sylvan Way. The market value for 1599 Littleton Road in 2023 was $16,184,000.
PARSIPPANY — A large group of Parsippany residents who are opposed to both the Town Council’s recent meeting time change and the proposed PILOT projects have organized a rally set for Thursday, December 28, beginning at 12:00 noon, according to a post on Facebook.
The December 19 Council meeting experienced significant overcrowding due to the high number of residents concerned about the PILOT projects on the agenda. This overcrowding forced the meeting to be abruptly adjourned.
Even before the meeting officially began, the council chambers were filled to capacity, with attendees standing shoulder-to-shoulder, surpassing the room’s safety limits. Consequently, Township Clerk Khaled Madin announced the postponement of the meeting to Thursday, December 28, at 1:00 p.m. at the PAL building located at 33 Baldwin Road in Parsippany. After facing criticism and chants of “Shame on You,” the meeting time was eventually adjusted to 7:00 p.m. However, Parsippany Focus has reported that the meeting is still scheduled to occur on Thursday, December 28, at the Parsippany PAL (33 Baldwin Road) but at 1:00 p.m., despite objections from the public (Click here to view calendar).
Many Parsippany taxpayers have voiced their dissatisfaction with this time change as it poses challenges for those who work during the day and wish to attend the meeting.
The Facebook post continues “If you plan on marching, here are a few requests we ask of everyone:
● Support the Men and Women in Blue they have a job to do so let us give them the space to do it. ● Please keep it peaceful! We are hoping for media attention for the right reasons, not the wrong ones. ● Leave no trace behind. We do not want to leave a mess behind like garbage, bottles, and signs. If you bring it there, please take it with you when we are done. ● Protest is, in its way, storytelling. We use our bodies, our words, our art, and our sounds.
We will distribute a flier to Parsippany’s electronic media along with all social media platforms.
Parking could be a challenge so please plan accordingly. Parking is allowed at the PAL, the Park & Ride at Smith Field, and the additional parking area next to the old Empire Diner. Please do not park on private property and no parking areas.
Bring a large sign for everyone to read and let your voice be heard! Some suggestions for signs (your ideas are probably better): ● PILOT = Parsippany In Lots Of Trouble! ● PIOLT = Parsippany Is Losing Our Top-Rated Schools. ● Show us the money! Where is it going? Hint: Contractors and…? ● Say No to Pilots. Say Yes to Schools ● Save our children #NoLargerClasses/Redistricting ● No Taxation without Representation (then put a picture of dumping tea) ● Save Our Schools ● Show Us the Money ● Who is paying for additional students? (21K per student)”
The Parsippany Police Department has installed no parking signs in front of the Parsippany PAL in preparation for the expected large crowds at the Council Meeting scheduled for Thursday, December 28.
PARSIPPANY — A New York man has been apprehended following an 18-mile chase by New Jersey State Police starting in Parsippany early Wednesday morning.
At 1:30 a.m. on Wednesday, December 27, troopers conducted a traffic stop on a black Nissan Altima for a moving violation on Interstate 80 westbound at milepost 43 in Parsippany-Troy Hills.
The driver, later identified as Triston Campbell, a 32-year-old from Brooklyn, initially pulled over on the right shoulder but then fled when the trooper approached the vehicle.
A pursuit ensued, covering approximately 18 miles, until the vehicle ultimately came to a halt on Drake Lane in Roxbury Township.
Campbell was arrested and charged with eluding, obstruction, resisting arrest, and multiple motor vehicle traffic violations.
Campbell is currently in custody at the Morris County Correctional Facility, pending a detention hearing.
Editors Note: A criminal complaint is merely an accusation. Despite this accusation, the individual(s) are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
PARSIPPANY — The new Miller’s Ale House, located on 1721 Route 10, held a ribbon-cutting grand opening, on Tuesday, December 26. Millers Ale House promises a vibrant and inviting atmosphere where residents and visitors can enjoy delicious food, refreshing drinks, and a lively social experience. With its renowned reputation for offering a diverse menu of mouthwatering dishes and an extensive selection of beers, Millers Ale House is expected to become a popular dining destination in the area.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Chairman Frank Cahill Extends a Warm Welcome to Miller’s Ale House with a Commemorative Plaque
Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Chairman Frank Cahill said “Adding Miller’s Ale House to Parsippany-Troy Hills reflects the ongoing efforts to enhance the local dining and entertainment scene. The restaurant is anticipated to attract both residents and visitors, offering a welcoming and enjoyable environment for gatherings with family and friends.”
Indulge in a Classic Philly Cheese Steak with Grilled Beef, Sautéed Onions, and Melted White American Cheese on a Fresh Hoagie Roll. Customize it with Sautéed Mushrooms and Peppers, and It Comes Complete with a Side of Crispy French FriesA Miller’s Ale House original for over 30 years: our fresh, never frozen, buttermilk-drenched, hand-breaded, boneless chicken tenders. Tossed in your favorite sauce.Jovani Vargas, Kitchen Manager; Sean Morrell, Head Coach Manager; Morris County Surrogate Heather Darling, Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce President Robert Peluso, General Manager Kyle Bem, Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Chairman Frank Cahill and Juan Gallardo, Bar Manager.
The ribbon-cutting event for the newly opened Miller’s Ale House, under the leadership of General Manager Kyle Bem, featured a prominent guest list, including Mayor James Barberio, Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Chairman Frank Cahill, Councilman Paul Carifi, Jr., newly elected Councilman Matt McGrath, Morris County Surrogate Heather Darling, and Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce President Robert Peluso. The ceremony also saw the presence of key members of the management team, such as Drew Reynolds, Senior Multi-Unit Manager; Juan Gallardo, Bar Manager; Sean Morrell, Head Coach Manager; Melanie Hrebek, Support Manager; Jovani Vargas, Kitchen Manager; and James Dulanto, Server Manager.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Chairman Frank Cahill Extends a Warm Welcome to Millers Ale House with a Commemorative Plaque
The approval was granted in 2019 to construct a 240-seat restaurant on the same property where Starbucks is located. Construction began in June 2023, as reported in Parsippany Focus. (Click here to read the article.)
Miller’s Ale House is located at 1721 Route 10 East, Parsippany.
The chain currently operates locations in Mount Laurel, Ocean Township, Paramus, Rockaway, Watchung, and Woodbridge. Click here to view all locations. A location on Route 46, Fairfield, is also in the planning stages.
The sports-themed, casual dining restaurant originally opened in Jupiter, Florida in 1988 and has grown to over 100 locations nationwide.
Miller’s Ale House of Parsippany, LLC., is a Delaware Corporation, formed on April 30, 2021. Miller’s Ale House is a member of the Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce.
Their Signature Cocktails are made to order and garnished with fresh ingredients. They have over 35 taps featuring a selection of local, craft, domestic, and imports. Plus, additional selections of bottles, cans, and seltzer. A wide selection of wines ranging from a refreshing Prosecco to deep Cabernet Sauvignon.
PARSIPPANY — The New Jersey Blood Services is holding a Blood Drive on Tuesday, January 2 at the PAL Building, 33 Baldwin Road from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
All donors will get a pair of their donor festive socks. Appointments are preferred but walk-ins are welcome if space permits. Call (800) 933-2566 or visit www.nybc.org.
PARSIPPANY — The Township of Parsippany Troy-Hills Health Department was notified that a skunk off Druid Hill Drive has tested positive for the Rabies virus.
It’s crucial to take immediate action when there’s a potential exposure to rabies. The information provided in the notification is essential for residents in the Township of Parsippany Troy-Hills. Here are some key points to remember:
Rabies is a deadly disease that can affect warm-blooded mammals, including humans.
The most common way the rabies virus is transmitted is through the bite or scratch of an infected animal.
Infected animals, once they become ill, may become aggressive and may bite or attack other animals or even people.
If you are bitten or scratched by any animal you suspect may be infected with rabies, you should:
Immediately wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water.
Contact your physician to seek medical attention and advice.
Contact the Parsippany Health Department at (973)- 263-7160 to report the incident and seek guidance.
If your pet is bitten or involved in a fight with a wild animal, you should:
Contact the Parsippany Health Department at (973) 263-7160.
Contact your veterinarian to assess your pet’s condition and potential exposure to rabies.
Prompt action is essential in cases of potential rabies exposure to prevent the virus from spreading and to ensure the safety of both humans and animals in the community.
MORRIS COUNTY — We all know that within the area of this publication, there are a multitude of diverse international and regional cuisines that would satisfy even the most fastidious tastes. One style of cooking that I have found missing is some good North American BBQ. As you may know, American BBQ is extremely popular in locations such as Texas, Carolina, Memphis, and Kansas City, all of which claim their particular style. One thing in common with whichever style you prefer is that BBQ utilizers low temperatures, usually somewhere between 180 and 250 degrees, along with a long, slow cooking process (sometimes involving many hours), where beef, pork, roasts, chicken, wings, and more, is cooked over indirect heat using a variety of wood and/or charcoal, then marinated or rubbed with a mixture of spices and sauces, creating a wonderful mouthwatering, tasty, smokey flavor. It’s amazing how once tough cuts of meat, like a brisket or belly, are transformed into tender, moist, succulent pieces of meat that seem to melt in your mouth.
Attention, food enthusiasts! Your culinary landscape is about to undergo a smoky transformation. Nestled at 811 Main Street, a new star has risen on the gastronomic scene – Embark Smoked Meats, the go-to destination for authentic North American BBQ.
I would rate BBQ as one of my favorite foods, and when the opportunity has presented itself, I have enjoyed some excellent BBQ throughout the United States. I would not call myself a BBQ aficionado, but being a carnivore, a properly done BBQ is like mouth candy for me.
I was excited to see that this past December 6th Embark Smoked Meats opened their doors for business at 811 Main Street in downtown Boonton, formerly the site of Thai Ping. Main Street presents a busy, bustling, old-school American type of setting with a youthful vibe, which seems a perfect fit for this classic American classic cuisine.
As my usual foodie group and I arrived I was fortunate to find a parking spot right in front of the restaurant. There is street parking only at this location. As we stepped inside, we were met by a bright, airy, energetic, vibrant ambiance that was appropriately designed for this type of venue; carefully planned out décor, immaculately clean, attractive, and welcoming. The initial impression you get is one of a fast-food type of eatery, but a spacious, thoughtfully decorated side room, with multiple tables, provides a comfortable setting where you can relax, meet with friends, and enjoy your meal. I should mention that Embark is also a BYOB, so bring along your favorite brew. I enjoyed a bottle of Modelo beer with my order of burnt ends. Menus featuring a wide array of your standard BBQ fare are posted on the wall, along with printed menus should you want to sit down, as my group did, and ponder your choices. The counter is manned by a very personable and friendly staff, who go about their work behind a sparkling, glass-fronted counter, where you can watch some of that beautifully barked meat being sliced, pulled, and prepped for outgoing orders.
The full menu, in addition to brisket, burnt ends, pulled pork, St. Louis spare ribs, half chicken, and smoked wings, also offers burgers, (a special blend of meats prepared by owner, Jasmine Gomez), hot dogs, chicken bites, mac & cheese, loaded fries, signature beef chili, Kale sprout salad, baked beans w/rib tips, along with other sides, and even breakfast options. Embark will shortly be offering the owner’s specialty BBQ sauces for purchase, allowing you to customize your BBQ. Of course, the Chef, despite being asked, wasn’t about to reveal the secret blend in her sauces.
Pitmaster, owner, and Chef, Jasmine Gomez, a graduate of the Institute of Culinary Education, along with a background in the food industry, showcases her personal history and passion for BBQ with several painted murals that adorn the dining area of Embark. This was in addition to the eye-catching painting along the front of the serving counter, as well as the clever and whimsical related art pieces and ornamentations that are placed throughout the interior. One mural, a picture of her first smoker, a huge 8-footer, that peaked her passion for cooking when she as a child would BBQ with her father every Sunday in their backyard in Montville; the second mural, her former BBQ Food Truck, where she practiced her craft for the past three years; and finally a third mural, a painting of Embark, her first and present business, with a clear message announcing, “Now we’re Heating Up”!
An impressive unit, utilizing different selections of woods that create the smoke, which is then filtered into a gas-heating section where the meats are slowly cooked. Different meats require different cooking times in the smoker to achieve the right flavor profile.
Chef Gomez, a very affable individual who is very enthusiastic about her new endeavor, told me everything at Embark is made fresh every day using only the freshest, highest quality meats and produce, and that most ingredients are locally sourced. Embarks meats are also free of steroids and hormones. She also creates a variety of special seasonings, rubs, sauces, and cooking techniques, including which high-quality wood she chooses to use in her smoker, which as I stated earlier, are secrets that she wasn’t about to share with this writer. Chef Gomez was kind enough to allow me into her spotless kitchen to show me Embarks smoker. An impressive unit, utilizing different selections of woods that create the smoke, which is then filtered into a gas-heating section where the meats are slowly cooked. Different meats require different cooking times in the smoker to achieve the right flavor profile. Brisket usually takes 12 hours, pulled pork requires 14 to 16 hours, while spare ribs and chicken take 3 to 4 hours.
Indulge in a savory delight: succulent burnt ends generously heaped atop a bed of Embark’s signature Mac and Cheese. Our three-cheese macaroni, lovingly prepared, is smothered in a creamy blend of cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan, creating the perfect canvas for a rich and flavorful experience
When asked what the origin of the restaurant’s name is, the Chef replied, “It is a combination of embarking on a new culinary adventure and a recognition of the trademark, visually appealing, flavorful bark crust that develops on the surface of smoked meat during barbecue.”
I ordered my favorite BBQ dish, burnt ends. Burnt ends are cut from the point of the smoked brisket. They have a rich, smokey bark and crunchy texture. Cut into cubes (like little candies), mopped in BBQ sauce, and caramelized. Don’t be distracted by the name, burnt ends, originating out of Kansas City, are not burnt. They are just cooked to the point of the bark being predominant. Super flavorful! My dish came with the burnt ends served over Embarks Mac and Cheese; 3 cheese mac, covered with panko breadcrumbs. For a side I tried the Signature Beef Chili; it was very tasty.
The attention-grabbing artwork adorning the front of the serving counter, coupled with the imaginative and playful art installations and embellishments thoughtfully scattered throughout the interior space.
Others in the group went with the Pulled Pork Sandwich; which Embarks 14-hour smoked pulled pork, with their house pork rub and served between two sweet buns, along with a choice of BBQ sauce and coleslaw. Bob A. went with a half rack of the St. Louis Spare Ribs, which he enjoyed and called a generous portion. While the rest, like me, went with the burnt ends. Not surprisingly, no one in this group opted for the Kale Sprout Salad!
Smoked brisket isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience. It’s a testament to the art of patience, the mastery of flavor, and the joy of savoring every delicious bite. Whether you’re at a barbecue joint, a backyard cookout, or a festive gathering, smoked brisket is a centerpiece that never fails to delight the senses and bring people together.
It was a fun dining experience with this “new kid on the block.” Next time around I’ll have to give either their pulled pork or signature burger a try. When you’re in the area stop in and give them a try, and maybe pick up a bottle or two of one of their carefully crafted BBQ sauces. I think your taste buds will appreciate it. Let’s all help support local businesses.
The magic of St. Louis spare ribs lies in their preparation and slow smoking. They are generously coated with a dry rub, which is a blend of various spices, herbs, and seasonings. This rub forms a flavorful crust on the surface of the ribs and infuses them with a delicious blend of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors.
Embark Smoked Meats, 811 Main Street, Boonton. (973) 934-9263.
Open Wednesday – Friday: 10:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.; Saturday – Sunday: 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Take Out – Indoor Dining – Catering – Private Events – BYOB. Woman-Owned, Local Operated Business
Pulled Pork Sandwich; which Embarks 14-hour smoked pulled pork, with their house pork rub and served between two sweet buns, along with a choice of BBQ sauce and coleslaw
Reprinted from Parsippany Focus Magazine, January 2024. Click here to view.
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Robert Carroll, Chief of Detectives Robert McNally, Morris County Sheriff James Gannon, and Chief Thomas Cacciabeve of the Boonton Township Police Department confirmed an arrest in connection with a homicide that occurred on December 24, 2023, in Boonton Township.
On December 24, 2023, at approximately 1:15 p.m., law enforcement was dispatched to a residence located at 78 Old Denville Road in Boonton Township, in response to an emergency call.
Gregory Meyer, 61, was discovered deceased, and subsequent investigation determined his son, Kyle Meyer, 33, to be a suspect. Following further investigation, Kyle Meyer was detained in Paterson at approximately 9:00 p.m. The suspect is the victim’s son, and the two reside at the same residence.
The Morris County Medical Examiner’s Office will examine the victim.
Kyle Meyer, age 33, of Boonton Township, has been charged with Murder, in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C: 11-3A1; Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose, in violation of 2C:39-4D; and Unlawful Possession of a Weapon, 2C:39-4D. He has been detained at the Morris County Correctional Facility pending a detention hearing.
This investigation remains active and ongoing. At this time, authorities are not seeking additional suspects. There is no danger to the public.
Anyone with information about this incident is encouraged to call the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Unit at (973) 285-6200, the Boonton Township Police Department at (973) 402-4000, or Morris County Crime Stoppers at (973) 267-2255.
Persons reporting any information may remain anonymous. Information on how to leave an anonymous call or text message can be found at the Crime Stoppers Program website at www.morriscrimestoppers.org.
Editors Note: A criminal complaint is merely an accusation. Despite this accusation, the individual(s) are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
PARSIPPANY — A quick drive through the streets of Parsippany revealed a mesmerizing sight. The homes were adorned with an array of dazzling Christmas decorations that lit up the night like a constellation of stars. Each house seemed to be in friendly competition with its neighbors to create the most enchanting holiday display.
Strings of colorful lights illuminated the rooftops and windows, casting a warm and inviting glow. In some yards, life-sized reindeer and snowmen stood tall, while others featured inflatable Santas and twinkling candy canes. Festive wreaths adorned front doors, and meticulously crafted nativity scenes told the story of the season.
As you drove through the streets, the scene was reminiscent of a holiday postcard come to life. It was a heartwarming reminder that in Parsippany, Christmas was not just a day but a season of joy, unity, and the shared delight of making homes and hearts shine brightly in celebration of the most wonderful time of the year.
MORRIS COUNTY — Efforts to battle food insecurity among New Jersey youth took a step forward when the New Jersey General Assembly, by a vote of 74-1, passed legislation requiring school districts to provide information to parents and guardians about the National School Lunch Program and the federal School Breakfast program.
Passed unanimously by the New Jersey Senate earlier this year, this legislation now awaits Governor Phil Murphy’s signature for approval.
“Through this bill, we are aiming to increase participation in these meal programs so that no child goes hungry during the school day,” Assembly Speaker Craig Coughlin (D-Middlesex), one of the primary sponsors of the bill said. “This legislation will help us ensure that every student eligible for free or reduced-priced meals knows exactly how to access them.”
According to data published online by the Annie E. Casey Foundation more than 342,000 New Jersey students are receiving free or reduced-priced lunches during the 2022/2023 school year.
This latest measure, bolstered by several similar efforts enacted since the COVID-19 pandemic to ensure that New Jersey children have access to quality meals, would take notification and education requirements already in place a step further by requiring parents and guardians to submit either an application for the programs or a signed card indicating that they have received the application and are uninterested in participating in them.
Assemblywoman Annette Quijano (D-Union) said that the parental sign-off or waivers would serve as an important way to “ensure that the greatest number of people possible are being notified of these critical programs,” while Assemblywoman Verlina Reynolds-Jackson (D-Mercer/Hunterdon) shared a reminder that not everyone has access to the internet, making it hard for some people to learn about the “life-enhancing” programs.
“By requiring everyone to receive physical copies of this information, we are seeking to level the playing field and make sure no child goes without food due to their socioeconomic status,” Reynolds-Jackson said.
This measure is not the final legislative effort being considered to bring nutritious meals to more New Jersey Children, lawmakers have said.
In June, the Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee and the Assembly Agriculture and Food Security Committee voted 4-0 in favor of legislation making all school lunches free in New Jersey schools by the 2028-29 school year.
“Our students are our most precious commodities and fueling their bodies so they can concentrate and fuel their brains is paramount to them receiving a top-notch education,” Assemblywoman Angela McKnight (D-Hudson) said. “Parental involvement is important to their children’s success and the legislation advanced today is an important step in that process.”
